Communication apparatus, control method, and computer readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention provides a communication apparatus, a control method, and a computer readable storage medium. The communication device communicates with a base station having a function of constructing a network, and controls a network including a plurality of base stations including a base station performing communication; and transmitting a message to at least two of the first base station and the second base station included in the controlled network such that a plurality of links to be used for communication are established between the first base station and the second base station.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application date of October 28, 2020, application number 202011171075.8, and invention name “Communication device, control method and computer-readable storage medium”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a communication device, a control method and a computer-readable storage medium, and more particularly to the establishment of a link for communication. Background Art

[0003] There is a technology for integrating networks constructed by corresponding multiple access points (APs) operating as network construction base stations into a single network. Such an integrated network of networks constructed by multiple APs is called a multi-AP (MAP) network. The MAP network includes a control device that controls the entire MAP network. Such a control device is called a MAP controller (or controller). The APs belonging to the MAP network and controlled by the controller are called MAP agents (or agents).

[0004] The controller and the agent, and the agent and other agents establish a communication link called a backhaul link and perform backhaul communication. The controller can achieve efficient network control between multiple agents belonging to the MAP network by using information obtained from the agents belonging to the MAP network via backhaul communication.

[0005] International Publication No. 2017-161361 discusses control of a network including multiple agents connected via backhaul communications.

[0006] Some APs operating as agents in a MAP network may have multiple wireless interfaces (I / Fs) and simultaneously build wireless networks in multiple frequency bands. An AP that can simultaneously build multiple wireless networks in multiple frequency bands may sometimes establish multiple backhaul links for backhaul communications to other APs. In this case, since the controller of the MAP network is a device that controls the entire MAP network, the controller may control the establishment of backhaul links in the MAP network. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present invention is intended to enable a communication device controlling a network including a plurality of base stations to control the establishment of a plurality of links when the base stations establish links therebetween.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, a communication device is provided, which includes a communication unit for communicating with a base station having a function of building a network; a control unit for controlling a network including multiple base stations, the multiple base stations including a base station that communicates by using the communication unit; and a first sending unit for sending a message to at least one of a first base station and a second base station included in the network controlled by the control unit, so that multiple links to be used for communication are established between the first base station and the second base station.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, a control method for a communication device is provided, the control method comprising a communication step of communicating with a base station having a function of building a network; a control step of controlling a network including a plurality of base stations, the plurality of base stations including a communication base station communicating in the communication step; and a sending step of sending a message to at least one of a first base station and a second base station included in the controlled network, so that a plurality of links to be used for communication are established between the first base station and the second base station.

[0010] Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a network to which access points (APs) 101, AP 102, and AP 103 participate.

[0012] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the AP 101 .

[0013] Figure 3 1 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing performed in a case where the AP 102 and the AP 103 establish a plurality of backhaul links.

[0014] Figure 4 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by AP 101 when multiple backhaul links are established between AP 102 and AP 103.

[0015] Figure 5 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by AP 101 when determining whether to establish a plurality of backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103.

[0016] Figure 6 is a flow chart showing an example of processing performed by AP 102 when establishing multiple backhaul links to AP 103.

[0017] Figure 710 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the AP 101 when stopping a predetermined backhaul link among a plurality of backhaul links established between the AP 102 and the AP 103.

[0018] Figure 8 2 is a sequence diagram showing another example of processing performed in the case where the AP 102 and the AP 103 establish a plurality of backhaul links. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Exemplary embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The configurations described in the following exemplary embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the illustrated configurations.

[0020] Figure 1 1 shows the construction of a network that an access point (AP) 101 joins according to an exemplary embodiment. AP 101, AP 102, and AP 103 are APs each having a function of building a network (basic service set (BSS)). AP 101 builds network 106, AP 102 builds network 107 and network 108, and AP 103 builds network 109. Stations (STA) 104 and 105 have a function of joining a network. STA 104 joins network 106, and STA 105 joins network 109. AP 101 is connected to a wide area network (WAN) 110, and can communicate with an external network such as the Internet.

[0021] In the present exemplary embodiment, networks 106, 107, 108, and 109 are wireless local area networks (LANs) conforming to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 series of standards. Specifically, each network supports at least any one of the IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax / be standards.

[0022] Each network can support other communication standards in addition to the IEEE 802.11 series of standards. Examples include Bluetooth (registered trademark), near field communication (NFC), ultra-wideband (UWB), ZigBee, and Multi-band Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) Alliance (MBOA). UWB includes wireless universal serial bus (USB), wireless 1394, and WiNET. In addition to the IEEE 802.11 series of standards, each network can also support the Wi-Fi Direct standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. Communication standards for wired communications such as wired LANs can also be supported.

[0023] In this exemplary embodiment, AP 102 includes multiple wireless interfaces, and multiple networks (network 107 and network 108) can be constructed simultaneously. In this case, network 107 and network 108 use different frequency bands. For example, network 107 uses the 2.4-GHz frequency band, and network 108 uses the 5-GHz frequency band. Alternatively, network 107 and network 108 can use channels with less interference in the same frequency band. For example, if network 107 uses a channel belonging to W52 in the 5-GHz frequency band, network 108 can use a channel belonging to W53. In this way, AP 102 can maintain multiple networks simultaneously.

[0024] In the present exemplary embodiment, AP 101, AP 102, and AP 103 support the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard. In this case, the integrated network of network 106, network 107, network 108, and network 109 will be referred to as a multi-AP (MAP) network 111. MAP network 111 is a network including AP 101, AP 102, and AP 103. AP 101 operates as a MAP controller (controller) that plays a role in controlling the entire MAP network 111. AP 102 and AP 103 operate as MAP agents (agents) that play a role in operating in the MAP network 111 based on control instructions from the controller. AP 101 may have not only a controller function but also an agent function. In this case, the control process between the controller and the agent of AP 101 is performed through internal data exchange. In the present exemplary embodiment, the controller of the MAP network 111 will be described as also having an AP function. However, this is not restrictive, and the controller may not have an AP function.

[0025] AP 101 as a controller and AP 102 and AP 103 as agents can communicate via the MAP network 111. Specifically, AP 102 as a agent has a backhaul STA function for joining the network 106 built by AP 101 as a controller as a STA. AP 101 as a controller and AP 102 as a agent can communicate by joining AP 102 to the network 106 built by AP 101 using the backhaul STA function. The function of connecting AP 102 serving as an AP to a STA is called a fronthaul AP function. By AP 103 joining the network 107 built by AP 102 as a STA, AP 103 can communicate with AP 101 via AP 102. In this way, AP 102 and AP 103 as agents can join the MAP network 111 by building a network as APs while joining the networks built by other APs as STAs. In the case of viewing from AP 102 or AP 103, the network constructed by other APs that AP 102 or AP 103 acting as a proxy is to join as a STA is called a backhaul BSS. In contrast, in the case of viewing from AP 102 or AP 103, the network that AP 102 or AP 103 acting as an AP has STA or other APs join is called a fronthaul BSS. In other words, in the case of viewing from the AP that constructs the network, the same network is called a fronthaul BSS, and in the case of viewing from the AP that joins the network, the same network is called a backhaul BSS.

[0026] The link that an AP acting as a proxy establishes when joining a network built by other APs and is used to communicate with the AP is called a backhaul link. From the perspective of an AP that establishes a backhaul link using an AP that joins a network built by its own device, the backhaul link is established via the fronthaul BSS. In contrast, from the perspective of an AP that joins a network built by other APs and establishes a backhaul link to the AP, the backhaul link is established via the backhaul BSS.

[0027] The controller and the agent may distinguish the network joined by a normal STA from the network joined by the agent, or treat these networks as the same network.

[0028] The link established by the agent or controller to the STA is called the fronthaul link.

[0029] The AP 101 as a controller manages and controls the agents and STAs in the MAP network 111. For example, the AP 101 as a controller can control the channel and transmission power of the network established by the AP 102 and AP 103 as agents by sending a predetermined control message via a backhaul link. Additionally or alternatively, the AP 101 as a controller can make the AP 102 or AP 103 as an agent migrate to a different network. Additionally or alternatively, the AP 101 can control the STA to turn. For example, the AP 101 can roam to change the connection destination of the STA 105 belonging to the network 109 constructed by the AP 103 belonging to the MAP network 111 to the network 106 constructed by the AP 101. Additionally or alternatively, the AP 101 can control AP to STA or AP to AP data traffic and diagnose each network. Additionally or alternatively, the AP 101 can obtain network related information from the AP 102 and AP 103 as agents via a backhaul link.

[0030] AP 102 and AP 103 as agents can notify network-related information (network information) to AP 101 as a controller via a backhaul link. Examples of network information notified by AP 102 and AP 103 include capability information about the agent itself (such as HT capability and VHT capability) and capability information about STA and AP connected to the agent. Alternatively, AP 102 and AP 103 can notify the controller of information about the agent's own wireless interface (I / F) as capability information about the agent. Examples of information about wireless I / F include the media access control (MAC) address of the wireless I / F included in the agent, and the wireless LAN communication method supported by the agent. If the agent includes multiple wireless I / Fs, the agent can notify the controller of information about each wireless I / F, or only notify information about some wireless I / Fs. If the agent includes not only one or more wireless I / Fs but also wired I / Fs, capability information about the wired I / F can be included. Examples of capability information about wired I / Fs include the MAC address of the wired I / F and information about the physical link rate of wired communication.

[0031] The control instruction from AP 101 as a controller is sent to and received by the agents (AP 102 and AP 103) via the backhaul link. In the present exemplary embodiment, the backhaul link is established and used for communication between AP 101 and AP 102 and between AP 102 and AP 103. Specifically, AP 102 can be connected to network 106 constructed by AP 101 as a backhaul STA while constructing network 107 and network 108. In this case, network 106 seen from AP 101 is called a fronthaul BSS, and network 106 seen from AP 102 is called a backhaul BSS. A backhaul link is established between AP 101 and AP 102 via network 106. Similarly, AP 103 can be connected to at least one of network 107 and network 108 constructed by AP 102 as a backhaul STA while constructing network 109. In this case, the network 107 and the network 108 seen from the AP 102 are called fronthaul BSSs, and the network 107 and the network 108 seen from the AP 103 are called backhaul BSSs. A backhaul link is thereby established between the AP 102 and the AP 103. In this exemplary embodiment, a backhaul link may be established between the AP 102 and the AP 103 via the respective network 107 and the network 108. That is, a plurality of backhaul links may be established between the AP 102 and the AP 103. In this case, the network 107 and the network 108 use a frequency band with less interference. For example, either one of the network 107 and the network 108 uses a 2.4-GHz frequency band, and the other uses a 5 GHz frequency band.

[0032] In the present exemplary embodiment, the AP is described as an example of a device having a controller function. However, this is not restrictive, and communication devices such as a personal computer (PC), a tablet, a smart phone, a mobile phone, and a television may be used. The same applies to devices having an agent function. Such devices are not restrictive, as long as the Figure 2 The hardware configuration shown is sufficient.

[0033] Figure 2 2 shows a hardware configuration of the AP 101. The AP 101 includes a power supply unit 201, an input unit 202, an output unit 203, a communication unit 204, an antenna 205, a storage unit 206, and a control unit 207.

[0034] The power supply unit 201 is a power supply unit that supplies power to various hardware to be described below. The power supply unit 201 obtains power from, for example, an alternating current (AC) power supply or a battery.

[0035] The input unit 202 accepts various operations from the user. For example, the input unit 202 includes modules such as buttons and keyboards. The output unit 203 performs various outputs to the user. Examples of outputs performed by the output unit 203 include at least one of the following: light emitting diode (LED) indication, screen display, audio output from a speaker, and vibration output. Both the input unit 202 and the output unit 203 can be implemented by one module (such as a touch panel). The input unit 202 and the output unit 203 can each be integrated or separated from the AP 101.

[0036] The communication unit 204 controls wireless communication conforming to the IEEE 802.11 series of standards. Additionally or alternatively, the communication unit 204 may control wired communication, such as wired LAN communication conforming to and defined by IEEE 802.3 and / or Internet Protocol (IP) communication. The communication unit 204 transmits and receives wireless signals via the antenna 205. If the AP 101 can simultaneously construct multiple networks, the AP 101 may include multiple communication units 204 and antennas 205.

[0037] The communication unit 204 includes a wireless I / F. The wireless I / F includes a radio frequency (RF) circuit and a wireless LAN chip. The communication unit 204 may include a plurality of wireless I / Fs. For example, the communication unit 204 may include a wireless I / F corresponding to a 2.4-GHz band and a wireless I / F corresponding to a 5-GHz band. In the present exemplary embodiment, the AP 101 includes one wireless I / F, and the AP 102 and the AP 103 each include two wireless I / Fs.

[0038] The storage unit 206 includes one or more memories such as a read-only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM), and stores computer programs for performing various operations to be described below and various types of information such as communication parameters for wireless communication. In addition to the ROM and RAM, storage media such as a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), a recordable compact disk (CD-R), a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, and a digital versatile disk (DVD) can be used as the storage unit 206. The storage unit 206 includes a plurality of memories and storage media.

[0039] The control unit 207 includes one or more processors, such as a central processing unit (CPU) and a microprocessing unit (MPU), and controls the entire AP 101 by executing a computer program stored in the storage unit 206. The control unit 207 may be configured to control the entire AP 101 through cooperation of the computer program stored in the storage unit 206 and an operating system (OS). The control unit 207 generates data and signals to be transmitted during communication with other communication devices. The control unit 207 may include a plurality of processors such as a multi-core processor, and control the entire AP 101 through the plurality of processors.

[0040] The control unit 207 executes a program stored in the storage unit 206 for causing the control unit 207 to function as a MAP controller module 208 and a MAP proxy module 209. The MAP controller module 208 is a program for causing the AP 101 to operate as a controller of the MAP network 111. The MAP proxy module 209 is a program for causing the AP 101 to operate as an agent in the MAP network 111. If the AP 101 functions as both a controller and an agent, the functions of both the MAP controller module 208 and the MAP proxy module 209 are executed. If the AP 101 functions only as a controller, i.e., does not function as an agent, only the function of the MAP controller module 208 is executed. In this case, the function of the MAP proxy module 209 may be disabled. Similarly, if the AP 101 functions only as an agent, i.e., does not function as a controller, only the function of the MAP proxy module 209 is executed. In this case, the function of the MAP controller module 208 may be disabled.

[0041] The control unit 207 performs processing for setting wireless LAN parameters that comply with Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) to establish a backhaul link by executing a program stored in the storage unit 206. WPS is a standard established by the Wi-Fi Alliance. AP101 can share communication parameters for establishing a backhaul link with other APs by performing parameter setting processing that complies with WPS. The communication parameters include at least one of the following: a service set identifier (SSID), an encryption method, an encryption key, an authentication method, and an authentication key. In addition to the communication parameters, information about the frequency band to be used may also be included. The control unit 207 can also perform communication parameter setting processing that complies with a device provisioning protocol (DPP) with higher security in addition to or instead of WPS by executing a program stored in the storage unit 206. DPP is a standard established by the Wi-Fi Alliance.

[0042] AP 102 and AP 103 also have a hardware configuration similar to that of AP 101. AP 102 and AP 103 do not need to have a controller function. In this case, control unit 207 does not need to include the function of MAP controller module 208.

[0043] Figure 3 1 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing performed in a case where the AP 102 and the AP 103 establish a plurality of backhaul links.

[0044] In the present exemplary embodiment, AP 102 first connects to network 106 constructed by AP 101 as a backhaul STA, establishes a backhaul link, and registers in AP 101 as a proxy. Thus, MAP network 111 including AP 101 and AP 102 is constructed. Next, in order to join MAP network 111, AP 103 connects to network 107 constructed by AP 102, and establishes a backhaul link to AP 102. When the backhaul link is established with AP 102, AP 103 registers in AP 101 as a proxy via AP 102. Then, under the control of AP 101 as a controller, a second backhaul link is established between AP 102 and AP 103 via network 108. Reference will be made to FIG. Figure 3 The sequence diagram shown is used to describe such a sequence.

[0045] This sequence starts in a state where the AP 102 belongs as a backhaul STA to the network 106 constructed by the AP 101. In step F301, the AP 102 having joined the network 106 multicasts an IEEE 1905.1 AP AutoConfiguration Search message as a search signal for searching for a controller.

[0046] In step F302 , if the AP 101 that has received the search signal transmitted from the AP 102 operates as a controller, the AP 101 transmits an AP autoconfiguration response message as a response signal to the AP 102 .

[0047] In step F303, AP 102, which has received the response signal, sends an AP auto-configuration WSC message to AP 101 as a registration request signal for registering AP 102 in AP 101 as a controller. The message includes a message corresponding to an M1 message that complies with the Wi-Fi Simple Configuration (WSC) standard. Specifically, the message includes information such as a MAC address and a device name of AP 102. In addition, the registration request signal includes capability information about wireless communication of AP 102. Specifically, information about one or more available frequency bands (at least one of the 2.4-GHz and 5-GHz frequency bands) of AP 102 and information about available channels are included as capability information about wireless communication. In addition to or in lieu of such information, an identifier for uniquely identifying the network 106 to which AP 102 belongs in the MAP network 111 may be included.

[0048] The registration request signal can be extended to include information about a wireless I / F that can be operated as a backhaul STA in AP 102. A specific example of the information about the wireless I / F is the MAC address of the wireless I / F. The registration request signal can also be extended to include information about a BSS that other APs can join among the fronthaul BSS that can be built by AP 102. A specific example of the information about the BSS is the basic service set identifier (BSSID) of the BSS. Information indicating whether the BSS that other APs can join has been built can be included as information about the BSS. The registration request signal can be further extended to include capability information about whether AP 102 can establish multiple backhaul links simultaneously.

[0049] In step F304, the AP 101 receiving the registration request signal sends an AP automatic configuration WSC message to the AP 102 as a registration response signal. If the AP 101 successfully registers the AP 102 as a proxy, a message corresponding to the WSCM2 message is included in the registration response signal. In this case, the registration response signal includes the device name of the AP 101 and information indicating that there is no error. The registration response signal also includes an identifier for uniquely identifying the network 106 in the MAP network 111. The identifier included in the registration response signal may be the same as the identifier included in the registration request signal. If any error occurs and the AP 101 fails to register the AP 102, a registration response signal indicating that an error has occurred is sent.

[0050] In step F304, AP 102 may give a notification to the user corresponding to the registration response signal received from AP 101. For example, if a registration response signal including information indicating that there is no error is received, AP 102 notifies the user that the registration is successful. Alternatively, AP 102 may notify the user that the MAP network 111 has been joined. On the other hand, if a registration response signal including information indicating that an error has occurred is received, AP 102 notifies the user that the registration has failed. Alternatively, AP 102 may notify the user that the MAP network 111 has failed to be joined. If the registration response signal includes information indicating the cause of the error, AP 102 may notify the user of the cause of the error.

[0051] In the present exemplary embodiment, information about the wireless I / F of AP 102 and information about the BSS that other APs can join are described as being included in the registration request signal transmitted from AP 102. However, this is not restrictive. AP 101 can obtain such information from AP 102 by transmitting an inquiry message for inquiring AP 102 about such information after the processing up to step F304 is completed, and receiving a corresponding response message. Similarly, AP 101 can also obtain capability information about whether AP 102 can simultaneously establish multiple backhaul links by transmitting an inquiry message and receiving a corresponding response message.

[0052] If there are one or more versions capable of establishing multiple backhaul links among multiple versions of the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard, the AP 101 may inquire about the version of the standard supported by the AP 102. In this case, the AP 101 may determine whether the AP 102 can establish multiple backhaul links based on information about the version of the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard supported by the AP 102.

[0053] Through the above process, AP 102 is registered in AP 101 as a controller as a proxy of MAP network 111. In addition, AP 101 can obtain information about wireless I / Fs of BSSs that AP 102 and other APs can join, and capability information about establishing multiple backhaul links by AP 102.

[0054] Next, AP 102 and AP 103 establish a backhaul link therebetween. Here, a process for establishing a link between agents at layer 2 (data link layer) of the open system interconnection (OSI) model is referred to as a login process. AP 103 can be added to MAP network 111 by performing a login process between AP 102 and AP 103. Figure 3 In the sequence shown, the login process is performed by a method that complies with the WPS standard.

[0055] To start the log-in process between AP 102 and AP 103, the user first presses a button on each of AP 102 and AP 103. The button can also be used for a communication parameter setting process using a push button configuration (PBC) method conforming to the WPS standard.

[0056] When the button is pressed, AP 102 and AP 103 start a login process using a method that complies with the WPS standard. AP 102 first transmits a beacon including information indicating the start of the WPS process. AP 103 detects AP 102 as an AP that performs the WPS process by receiving the beacon transmitted from AP 102. Alternatively, AP 103 may detect AP 102 by transmitting a probe request and receiving a corresponding probe response from AP 102.

[0057] In step F305, AP 103, which detects AP 102 as an AP performing WPS processing, sends an association request to AP 102. Here, AP 103 sends the association request accompanied by a MAP information element (MAP IE). MAP IE is an information element compliant with the Wi-Fi Easy Mesh standard and includes information indicating that AP 103 is sending an association request as a backhaul STA.

[0058] In step F306, the AP 102 that received the association request sends an association response as a response to the AP 103. The association response also includes a MAP IE. The MAP IE sent from the AP 102 includes information indicating that the connected network 107 is a BSS to which other APs can connect.

[0059] AP 102 and AP 103 may respectively transmit an association request and an association response including information indicating whether the own device can establish a plurality of backhaul links.

[0060] In step F307, AP 103 that has received the association response performs a WPS process with AP 102 to share the communication parameters of the fronthaul BSS of AP 102 that AP 103 can join. In this exemplary embodiment, AP 102 provides AP 103 with the communication parameters of network 107 as the communication parameters of the fronthaul BSS of AP 102 that AP 103 can join. The wireless LAN frame transmitted and received in the WPS process includes a MAP IE. In the case of seeing from AP 103, network 107 is called a backhaul BSS.

[0061] When AP 103 shares the communication parameters with AP 102 through the WPS process, the communication link between AP 102 and AP 103 is immediately disconnected. In step F308, AP 103 sends an association request to AP 102 by using the communication parameters of the fronthaul BSS of AP 102 obtained by the WPS process.

[0062] In step F309, AP 102, which has received the association request, sends an association response to AP 103 as a response. Both the sent association request and association response are accompanied by MAP IE. Through such processing, a backhaul link is established between AP 102 and AP 103. Then, the backhaul link can be encrypted through a 4-way handshake as appropriate.

[0063] Next, the proxy AP 103 is registered in the AP 101 as a controller. Specifically, the AP 103 searches for the controller and sends a registration request. The processing of steps F310 to F313 is similar to the processing of the aforementioned steps F301 to F304. Therefore, its description will be omitted. Like the AP 102, the AP 101 obtains information about the wireless I / F of the AP 103 and the BSS that other APs can join, as well as information about the ability of the AP 103 to establish multiple backhaul links.

[0064] In this exemplary embodiment, it is assumed that AP 101 successfully obtains information about the wireless I / Fs of AP 102 and AP 103 and the BSSs that other APs can join, as well as capability information about the establishment of multiple backhaul links. In step F314, AP 101 performs a process for determining whether to establish multiple backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103. Figure 5 The details of the determination process (backhaul establishment determination process) performed by the AP 101 are described. It is assumed here that the AP 101 determines to establish a plurality of backhaul links between the AP 102 and the AP 103.

[0065] In step F315, AP 101 sends a backhaul establishment start message to AP 102 based on the determination result, which is a start message (start request) intended to start establishing multiple backhaul links. The backhaul establishment start message includes information indicating the network designated as the BSS to be used to establish the backhaul link. Specifically, the backhaul establishment start message includes the BSSID of the designated network. Optionally, an identifier that can uniquely identify the designated network between AP 101 and AP 102 may be included. In this exemplary embodiment, network 108 constructed by AP 102 is designated as the network to be used when establishing the backhaul link. In the case of viewing from AP 102, network 108 is called a fronthaul BSS, and in the case of viewing from AP 103, network 108 is called a backhaul BSS. In addition, information indicating the frequency band and channel to be used by the designated network may also be included. If the establishment of the new backhaul link involves a communication parameter setting process between AP 102 and AP 103, the start request may include information specifying the setting process method. The WPS method or the DPP method is selected as the method of the communication parameter setting process. If it is determined based on the information obtained from the AP 102 that the network to be used to establish the new backhaul link has not been constructed, the start request may include information for giving an instruction to construct the network.

[0066] The AP 102 that receives the start request from the AP 101 determines whether a backhaul link can be established via the specified network. In step F316, the AP 102 sends a backhaul establishment start response message to the AP 101, which is a start response message including information indicating the determination result. An example of a case where the backhaul link is determined to be unable to be established via the specified network will be described below. If a communication parameter setting process using the WPS method is necessary for the establishment of the backhaul link, and the AP 102 is already performing a communication parameter setting process using the WPS method with other devices, the backhaul link is determined to be unable to be established. Note that the case where the AP 102 determines that the backhaul link cannot be established is not limited to this.

[0067] If the backhaul establishment start response message received from the AP 102 includes information indicating that the AP 102 can establish a backhaul link, in step F317, the AP 101 also sends a start message to the AP 103. The start message sent to the AP 103 here is similar to the start message sent to the AP 102 in step F315. Instead of or in addition to the information included in the start message sent in step F315, information for specifying a wireless I / F operating as a backhaul STA in the AP 103 may be included.

[0068] AP 103 receives the backhaul setup start message and determines whether a backhaul link can be established like AP 102. In step F318, AP 103 sends a backhaul setup start response message including the determination result to AP 101. It is assumed here that AP 103 sends a backhaul setup start response message indicating that a backhaul link can be established to AP 101.

[0069] If the start response message received from AP 103 includes information indicating that the backhaul link can be established, AP 101 waits until a new backhaul link is established between AP 102 and AP 103. If the received start response message includes information indicating that AP 103 cannot establish the backhaul link, AP 101 sends a message for canceling the establishment of the backhaul link to AP 102. In this case, the process for establishing the second backhaul link between AP 102 and AP 103 is stopped. This is not restrictive, and AP 101 may send a backhaul establishment start message to AP 103 again after a certain time has passed.

[0070] In this exemplary embodiment, in step F315 and step F317, the backhaul setup start message is sent to AP 102 and AP 103 successively. However, the order is not limited thereto. The backhaul setup start message may be sent to AP 102 and AP 103 at the same time or in the reverse order. Alternatively, the backhaul setup start message may be broadcast or multicast in MAP network 111.

[0071] Meanwhile, after AP 102 and AP 103 send a start response message indicating that a backhaul link can be established in steps F316 and F318, respectively, AP 102 and AP 103 start a process for establishing a backhaul link. If AP 102 has not yet built a designated network, AP 102 first builds a network. In the present exemplary embodiment, the designated network is network 108. In steps F319 to F323, AP 102 and AP 103 perform a process similar to the login process performed in the aforementioned steps F305 to F309 on network 108.

[0072] If AP 102 and AP 103 complete the login process and the second backhaul link is established between AP 102 and AP 103, then in step F324, AP 102 sends a backhaul setup complete message to AP 101. In step F326, AP 103 similarly sends a backhaul setup complete message to AP 101.

[0073] In steps F325 and F327, AP 101, which has received the backhaul setup complete message, sends a backhaul setup confirm message to AP 102 and AP 103. The backhaul setup confirm message may include an identifier that can uniquely identify the new backhaul link established in MAP network 111. AP 101 may then instruct the proxy to control the backhaul link by using the identifier.

[0074] If the backhaul link fails to be established, a backhaul establishment error message including information indicating the backhaul link establishment failure may be sent to AP 101 instead of a backhaul establishment completion message. If AP 101 receives the backhaul establishment error message from at least one of AP 102 and AP 103, AP 101 sends a stop message for stopping establishment of the backhaul link to AP 102 and AP 103.

[0075] Although the backhaul setup complete message and the backhaul setup error message are described as being transmitted from both AP 102 and AP 103 to AP 101 , this is not limitative, and the messages may be transmitted from only either one of AP 102 and AP 103 .

[0076] In the present exemplary embodiment, the messages transmitted in steps F315 to F318 and F324 to F327 are sent in a format conforming to the IEEE 1905.1 standard. However, this is not restrictive, and the messages may be in other formats.

[0077] Through the aforementioned processing, multiple backhaul links can be established between AP 102 and AP 103. As described above, when multiple backhaul links are established between agents, the controller can control the establishment of multiple backhaul links by giving an instruction to establish the backhaul links through the controller.

[0078] like Figure 3 As shown, the establishment of the second backhaul link between AP 102 and AP 103 is triggered by a backhaul establishment start message sent from AP 101. Since the user does not need to press buttons on AP 102 and AP 103 when establishing the second backhaul link between AP 102 and AP 103, it is convenient for the user.

[0079] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment, whenever a backhaul link is established, AP 102 and AP 103 perform a communication parameter sharing process using the WPS method. However, this is not restrictive. AP 102 and AP 103 may share communication parameters to be used for establishing other backhaul links during the initial sharing process (steps F305 to F309). In this case, AP 102 and AP 103 may omit the process of step F321.

[0080] Figure 4 1 is a flowchart showing a process performed when the AP 101 establishes a plurality of backhaul links between other APs. This process is performed by the control unit 207 reading a computer program stored in the storage unit 206 and executing the computer program.

[0081] When a new agent joins the MAP network 111 controlled by the AP 101, the AP 101 starts the process of the flowchart. Alternatively, the AP 101 may start the process of the flowchart based on an instruction from a user or based on the detection of a topology change in the MAP network 111. Alternatively, the AP 101 may start the process of the flowchart based on a request made by an agent belonging to the MAP network 111 to establish multiple backhaul links.

[0082] In step S401, AP 101 first obtains information about agents in MAP network 111. The agent information obtained here is Figure 3 The information notified by the AP automatic configuration message shown (step F303 and step F312). In addition or alternatively, AP 101 can obtain network information notified from the agent via a backhaul link. Optionally, AP 101 can send an inquiry message to the agent and obtain information from the agent in response thereto. For example, AP 101 can send an AP capability inquiry message, which is defined as an inquiry message for inquiring about the capability information of the AP through the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard. In this case, AP 101 can obtain capability information about AP 102 by receiving an AP Capacity Report message (AP Capacity Report message) from AP 102 as a response. This is not restrictive, and AP 101 can also obtain agent information by using other inquiry messages. In this exemplary embodiment, AP 101 obtains agent information from all agents that join the MAP network 111. However, this is not restrictive. AP 101, as a controller, can only obtain information about a given one or more agents.

[0083] In step S402, AP 101 determines whether multiple backhaul links can be established between two given agents in MAP network 111. Whether the agent has the ability to establish multiple backhaul links is determined based on the information obtained from the agent in step S401. In the present exemplary embodiment, AP 101 determines whether multiple backhaul links can be established between AP 102 and AP 103. AP 101 makes this determination based on information about available frequency bands of each of AP 102 and AP 103 obtained from AP 102 and AP 103 in step S401. Specifically, if both AP 102 and AP 103 can use 2.4-GHz and 5-GHz frequency bands, AP 101 makes a "yes" determination in this step. On the other hand, if only one of AP 102 and AP 103 can use either of 2.4-GHz and 5-GHz frequency bands, AP 101 makes a "no" determination in this step. Alternatively or additionally, if AP 101 obtains information about the wireless I / F that can operate as a backhaul STA from AP 102 and AP 103 in step S401, AP 101 can make a determination based on the information in this step. Specifically, if both AP 102 and AP 103 notify AP 101 of a wireless I / F other than the wireless I / F that has been used as the wireless I / F that can operate as a backhaul STA, AP 101 makes a "yes" determination in this step. On the other hand, if one of AP 102 and AP 103 notifies AP 101 of only the wireless I / F that has been used as the wireless I / F that can operate as a backhaul STA, or there is no wireless I / F, AP 101 makes a "no" determination in this step. Alternatively or additionally, if AP 101 obtains capability information (capability information) about whether multiple backhaul links can be established simultaneously from AP 102 and AP 103 in step S401, AP 101 can make a determination based on the capability information in this step. Specifically, if both AP 102 and AP 103 can establish multiple backhaul links simultaneously, AP 101 makes a "yes" determination in this step. On the other hand, if at least one of AP 102 and AP 103 cannot establish multiple backhaul links simultaneously, AP 101 makes a "no" determination in this step. If the determination in this step is "yes" ("yes" in step S402), the process proceeds to step S403. On the other hand, if the determination in this step is "no" ("no" in step S402), the process ends.

[0084] In this step, the AP 101 may make a determination only for two specific proxies in the MAP network 111. Alternatively, the AP 101 may make a determination for all combinations of proxies that have established backhaul links in the MAP network 111. If the AP 101 makes a determination for all combinations of proxies that have established backhaul links, the AP 101 performs the processing of step S403 and subsequent steps for each combination.

[0085] In step S403, the AP 101 determines whether to establish multiple backhaul links. In this step, the AP 101 may determine whether it is necessary to establish multiple backhaul links between the agents for which the determination made in step S402 is "yes". Figure 5 An example of the processing in this step is shown.

[0086] In step S501, AP 101 obtains the communication state of the backhaul link between two target agents. In the present exemplary embodiment, AP 101 obtains the communication state of the backhaul link that has been established between AP 102 and AP 103. AP 101 obtains the communication state of the backhaul link by information about the communication state notified from the agent. Optionally, AP 101 may send an inquiry message for inquiring about the communication state of the backhaul link to at least one of AP 102 and AP 103, and obtain the communication state as a response message. For example, AP 101 may obtain the communication state by sending an inquiry message for inquiring about the link metric information of the backhaul link and obtaining the link metric information included in the response message. The link metric is represented by, for example, capability information about the throughput of at least one of AP 102 and AP 103 or information about the physical rate or traffic volume of the target backhaul link. In the present exemplary embodiment, the link metric is represented by a link usage rate as information about the traffic volume of the backhaul link. In this step, the AP 101 may also obtain a radio wave condition indicated by a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) or a state of a channel of at least one of the AP 102 and the AP 103 .

[0087] In step S502, AP 101 determines whether the traffic volume (link usage rate) of the target backhaul link is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value. In this step, AP 101 determines whether to establish a plurality of backhaul links based on the communication state between the agents obtained in step S501. In the present exemplary embodiment, since the traffic volume (link usage rate) of the backhaul link between AP 102 and AP 103 is obtained as the communication state, AP 101 makes a determination in this step based on the traffic volume (link usage rate). If the traffic volume (link usage rate) obtained in step S501 is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, AP 101 makes a "yes" determination in this step ("yes" in step S502) and the process proceeds to step S503. On the other hand, if the traffic volume (link usage rate) obtained in step S501 is less than the predetermined threshold value, AP 101 makes a "no" determination in this step ("no" in step S502) and the process proceeds to step S506. The threshold used in making the determination may be preset by the AP 101 or calculated by the AP 101 based on link metrics of the entire MAP network 111. The threshold may be set by a user.

[0088] In this exemplary embodiment, AP 101 makes a determination based on the traffic volume in this step. However, this is not restrictive. If AP 101 obtains the physical rate of the target backhaul link as a communication state in step S501, AP 101 can make a determination in step S502 based on the physical rate. In this case, AP 101 determines in this step whether the physical rate is lower than or equal to a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, if AP 101 obtains capability information about the throughput of at least one of AP 102 and AP 103 as a communication state in step S501, AP 101 can make a determination based on the throughput in step S502. In such a case, AP 101 determines in step S502 whether the throughput is lower than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

[0089] In step S503, the AP 101 obtains the communication status of the entire MAP network 111. In this step, the AP 101 obtains the communication status such as the link metric of the constructed network from all agents in the MAP network 111. Specifically, the AP 101 obtains the traffic volume, physical rate, or throughput of the network constructed by all agents in the MAP network 111. Similar to step S501, the AP 101 may send an inquiry message for obtaining information about the link metric, and obtain the communication status from the response message. If the AP 101 has not yet discovered the channel of the network constructed by the agent, the AP 101 may obtain information about the channel in this step.

[0090] In step S504, the AP 101 determines whether the establishment of multiple backhaul links between target agents affects other communications in the MAP network 111 based on the communication state of the entire MAP network 111 obtained in step S503. For example, if a new network 108 is constructed to establish a new backhaul link, data communication between a radio frame such as a beacon and the backhaul link will be sent on the same channel as the channel of the network 108. Therefore, the establishment of the new backhaul link may interfere with the existing communication and cause adverse effects such as a decrease in the data communication speed and packet loss of the existing communication. Making this determination can prevent the new backhaul link from interfering with the communication via other links that have already been established in the MAP network 111.

[0091] Specifically, in this step, the AP 101 determines whether there are other links on the same frequency channel as the frequency channel of the new backhaul link to be established. If there are other links, the AP 101 makes a "yes" determination in this step ("yes" in step S504), and the process proceeds to step S506. On the other hand, if there are no other links, the AP 101 makes a "no" determination in this step ("no" in step S504), and the process proceeds to step S505. If the determination in this step is "yes", the AP 101 may further make a determination based on the communication status of other links on the same frequency channel. Specifically, if the traffic volume (link usage rate) of the other links is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the AP 101 determines that the new backhaul link to be established will not affect the existing link, and the process proceeds to step S505. On the other hand, if the traffic volume (link usage rate) of the other links is greater than the predetermined threshold, the AP 101 determines that the new backhaul link to be established can affect the existing link, and the process proceeds to step S506.

[0092] Step S503 and step S504 may be omitted. In this case, if the determination in step S502 is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S505.

[0093] In step S505, AP 101 determines that multiple backhaul links are to be established. Specifically, AP 101 may store information indicating that it is determined that multiple backhaul links between target agents are required. In contrast, in step S506, AP 101 determines that multiple backhaul links are not to be established. Specifically, AP 101 may store information indicating that it is determined that multiple backhaul links between target agents are not required. After step S505 or step S506, the process ends.

[0094] Figure 5The determination process shown is only an example and is not restrictive. In the present exemplary embodiment, the determination is made based on the communication state between the target agents and the communication state of the entire MAP network 111. However, this is not restrictive, and whether to establish multiple backhaul links can be determined based on the user's selection. In such a case, the processing of steps S501 to S504 can be omitted. For example, if the establishment of multiple backhaul links in the MAP network 111 is enabled by the user's setting, the AP 101 performs the processing of step S505. On the other hand, if the establishment of multiple backhaul links in the MAP network 111 is prohibited by the user's setting, the AP 101 performs the processing of step S506. Alternatively, whether to enable the establishment of multiple backhaul links between specific agents can be set by the user. The user can set it via an STA connected to the AP 101 via a wired or wireless LAN or via the input unit 202 of the AP 101. The user can set it via other devices connected to the external network to which the AP 101 is connected, or via an STA belonging to a network in the MAP network 111.

[0095] Optionally, AP 101 may make a decision based on the radio wave conditions of the existing backhaul link. Figure 5 Specifically, if at least one of the RSSIs of AP 102 and AP 103 is lower than a predetermined threshold, AP 101 performs the process of step S505 to establish a plurality of backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103. If the RSSI is higher than or equal to the predetermined threshold, AP 101 performs the process of step S506. In this way, if the RSSI associated with the existing backhaul link between AP 102 and AP 103 is low, a backup backhaul link can be established by establishing a plurality of backhaul links.

[0096] Return to reference Figure 4 In step S404, AP 101 determines whether to establish multiple backhaul links between the agents. AP 101 makes this determination based on the determination result of step S403. Specifically, if Figure 5 If the processing of step S505 in the above is carried out, the AP101 makes a "yes" determination. Figure 5404, the processing returns to step S403. The AP 101 may include a timer, and if a "yes" determination is not made in step S404 before a predetermined time has passed from when a "no" determination is made in step S404 for the first time, the AP 101 may end the processing of the flowchart. Alternatively, if a "no" determination is made in step S404 for a predetermined number of times in succession, the AP 101 may end the processing of the flowchart. If the determination in step S404 is "yes" ("yes" in step S404), the processing proceeds to step S405.

[0097] In step S405, AP 101 sends a backhaul setup start message to the target proxy (at least one of AP 102 and AP 103). The backhaul setup start message sent here corresponds to the backhaul setup start message sent in step S406. Figure 3 Those messages described in step F315 and step F317.

[0098] In step S406, AP 101 determines whether a backhaul setup start response message is received from the target proxy (at least one of AP 102 and AP 103). The backhaul setup start response message to be received here corresponds to the backhaul setup start response message received in Figure 3 In this step, the AP 101 waits for receiving a backhaul setup start response message from the proxy to which the backhaul setup start message was sent in step S406. If the backhaul setup start response message is not received ("No" in step S406), the process returns to step S406. If the backhaul setup start response message is not received before a predetermined time has passed since the backhaul setup start message was sent in step S405, the AP 101 may end the process of this flowchart. If the backhaul setup start response message is received ("Yes" in step S406), the process proceeds to step S407.

[0099] In step S407, AP 101 determines whether a new backhaul link can be established between the target agents (between AP 102 and AP 103). Specifically, AP 101 determines whether the backhaul setup start response message received in step S406 includes information indicating that a new backhaul link can be established. If the backhaul setup start response messages received from both AP 102 and AP 103 include information indicating that a new backhaul link can be established, AP 101 makes a "yes" determination in this step ("yes" in step S407), and the process proceeds to step S408. On the other hand, if the backhaul setup start response message received from at least any one of AP 102 and AP 103 includes information indicating that a new backhaul link cannot be established, AP 101 makes a "no" determination in this step ("no" in step S407), and the process proceeds to step S409.

[0100] If the new backhaul link cannot be established, in step S409, AP 101 performs a process for canceling the establishment of the new backhaul link. Specifically, AP 101 sends a stop message to stop the process for establishing the backhaul link to at least one of AP 102 and AP 103. AP 101 may send a stop message only to the proxy (if any) from which the backhaul establishment start response message including the information indicating that the new backhaul link can be established is sent. If AP 101 has already instructed AP 102 to build network 108 to establish the new backhaul link, AP 101 may instruct AP 102 to stop network 108. After the execution of step S409, the process ends.

[0101] On the other hand, if a new backhaul link can be established, then in step S408, AP 101 determines whether a backhaul establishment complete message is received from the target proxy. The backhaul establishment complete message to be received here corresponds to the backhaul establishment complete message received in step S409. Figure 3 The AP 101 may receive messages from only one of at least two of the AP 102 and the AP 103.

[0102] In the present exemplary embodiment, AP 101 is described as receiving a backhaul setup start response message. However, this is not restrictive. AP 101 may start a timer after sending the backhaul setup start message and determine whether a backhaul setup complete message is received before a predetermined time has passed. In other words, after the execution of step S405, AP 101 may skip the processing of steps S406 and S407 and perform the processing of step S408. In this case, if the backhaul setup complete message is not received before a predetermined time has passed, the processing proceeds to step S409. If the backhaul setup complete message is received before a predetermined time has passed, the processing proceeds to step S410.

[0103] In step S410, AP 101 sends a backhaul setup confirmation message to the target proxy (at least one of AP 102 and AP 103). The backhaul setup confirmation message sent in this step corresponds to the backhaul setup confirmation message sent in step S411. Figure 3 Those messages described in step F325 and step F327 of. This step can be omitted. After executing this step, the processing ends.

[0104] like Figure 4 As shown, the controller controls whether to establish a plurality of backhaul links between agents, whereby the backhaul links can be established while considering the impact on other communications in the MAP network 111.

[0105] Figure 6 2 is a flowchart showing a process performed when AP 102 establishes a plurality of backhaul links with AP 103. This process is performed by control unit 207 reading a computer program stored in storage unit 206 and executing the computer program.

[0106] The AP 102 starts the process of the flowchart when a new backhaul link is established with other agents controlled by the AP 102. Alternatively, the AP 102 may start the process of the flowchart based on an instruction from a user.

[0107] In step S601, AP 102 determines whether a backhaul establishment start message is received from AP 101 as a controller. The backhaul establishment start message to be received here corresponds to Figure 3 The backhaul setup start message described in step F315 of FIG. 314 is received. If the backhaul setup start message is not received ("No" in step S601), the process returns to step S601. If the backhaul setup start message is not received before a predetermined time has passed since the start of the process of this flowchart, the process ends. On the other hand, if the backhaul setup start message is received ("Yes" in step S601), the process proceeds to step S602.

[0108] In step S602, AP 102 determines whether AP 102 can establish a new backhaul link. Figure 3 Step F316 of describes the details of the determination process, and its description will be omitted. If a new backhaul link can be established ("Yes" in step S602), the process proceeds to step S603. On the other hand, if a new backhaul link cannot be established ("No" in step S602), the process proceeds to step S604.

[0109] If the AP 102 cannot establish a new backhaul link, then in step S604, the AP 102 transmits a backhaul establishment start response message including information indicating that the backhaul link cannot be established to the AP 101 as the controller. After the process of step S604, the process ends.

[0110] On the other hand, if AP 102 can establish a new backhaul link, then in step S603, AP 102 sends a backhaul establishment start response message including information indicating that a backhaul link can be established to AP 101 as a controller. The backhaul establishment start response message sent here corresponds to Figure 3 The backhaul establishment start response message described in step F316.

[0111] In step S605, AP 102 performs a process for establishing a new backhaul link with AP 103. In this exemplary embodiment, AP 102 uses Figure 3 The WPS method described in steps F319 to F323 of the present invention performs establishment processing with AP 103.

[0112] In step S606, AP 102 determines whether a new backhaul link is successfully established. If AP 102 successfully establishes a new backhaul link with AP 103 ("Yes" in step S606), the process proceeds to step S608. On the other hand, if AP 102 fails to establish a new backhaul link with AP 103 ("No" in step S606), the process proceeds to step S607.

[0113] If a new backhaul link with AP 103 fails to be established, then in step S607, AP 102 transmits a backhaul establishment failure message to AP 101 as a controller. After the process of step S607, the process ends.

[0114] On the other hand, if the new backhaul link with AP 103 is successfully established, then in step S608, AP 102 sends a backhaul establishment completion message to AP 101 as the controller. The backhaul establishment completion message sent here corresponds to Figure 3 The backhaul establishment completion message described in step F324 of FIG.

[0115] In step S609, AP 102 determines whether a backhaul setup confirmation message is received from AP 101 as a controller. As described above, the backhaul setup confirmation message may not be sent from AP 101, in which case this step is omitted. The backhaul setup confirmation message to be received here corresponds to Figure 3 If the backhaul setup confirmation message is not received from AP 101 ("No" in step S609), the process returns to step S609. On the other hand, if the backhaul setup confirmation message is received from AP 101 as the controller ("Yes" in step S609), the process ends.

[0116] As mentioned above, Figure 6 It shows the process performed when AP 102 establishes multiple backhaul links with AP 103. Through this process, multiple backhaul links can be established between agents based on the instruction from the controller.

[0117] Figure 7 2 is a flowchart showing a process performed when AP 101 stops a backhaul link between AP 102 and AP 103. The process is performed by control unit 207 reading a computer program stored in storage unit 206 and executing the computer program. If a plurality of backhaul links are established between AP 102 and AP 103 and then are no longer used by a target agent, the controller stops any one of the backhaul links.

[0118] The AP 101 starts the process of the flowchart when a plurality of backhaul links are established between the AP 102 and the AP 103. Alternatively, the AP 101 may start the process of the flowchart based on an instruction from a user.

[0119] In step S701, AP 101 first determines whether to use multiple backhaul links between predetermined agents. Figure 5The AP 101 performs a similar process to the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 . Specifically, the AP 101 determines whether the traffic volume (link usage rate) of each backhaul link among the multiple backhaul links established between the AP 102 and the AP 103 is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold value. The threshold value in this step is less than the threshold value in step S502. If the traffic volume (link usage rate) of any one of the backhaul links is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, the AP 101 can determine that the multiple backhaul links between the AP 102 and the AP 103 are not required. On the other hand, if the traffic volume (link usage rate) of both backhaul links is greater than the predetermined threshold value, the AP 101 can determine that the multiple backhaul links between the AP 102 and the AP 103 are required. Alternatively or in addition, the AP 101 can make a determination based on the communication state in the MAP network 111. Specifically, the AP 101 makes a determination based on the traffic volume (link usage rate) of other links in the MAP network 111 that use the same channel as the channel of any one of the multiple backhaul links established between the AP 102 and the AP 103. If the traffic volume (link usage rate) of other links is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, AP 101 determines not to use the multiple backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103. On the other hand, if the traffic volume (link usage rate) of other links is less than a predetermined threshold, AP 101 determines to use the multiple backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103. Alternatively, AP 101 may make a determination based on an instruction from a user. Specifically, if the execution of multiple backhaul links in MAP network 111 is prohibited by a user's setting, AP 101 determines not to use the multiple backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103. If the user gives an instruction to end the multiple backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103, AP 101 makes a similar determination.

[0120] Alternatively, if there are multiple backhaul links established to provide backup for the backhaul link between the agents, the AP 101 may make a determination based on the radio wave condition of the backhaul link that is primarily used. Specifically, if the RSSI of the backhaul link that is primarily used is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the AP 101 determines not to use the multiple backhaul links between the AP 102 and the AP 103. On the other hand, if the RSSI of the backhaul link that is primarily used is less than a predetermined threshold, the AP 101 determines to use the multiple backhaul links between the AP 102 and the AP 103.

[0121] In step S702, AP 101 determines whether to use multiple backhaul links between predetermined agents based on the result of the determination made in step S701. If, in step S701, it is determined that multiple backhaul links are used between AP 102 and AP 103, AP 101 makes a "yes" determination in this step ("yes" in step S702), and the process ends. Thus, the multiple backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103 are maintained. On the other hand, if, in step S701, it is determined that multiple backhaul links are not used, AP 101 makes a "no" determination in this step ("no" in step S702), and the process proceeds to step S703.

[0122] In step S703, AP 101 sends a stop message for giving an instruction to stop the target backhaul link to a predetermined agent (at least one of AP 102 and AP 103). The backhaul link to be stopped here is the backhaul link whose traffic volume (link utilization rate) is determined to be less than or equal to the predetermined threshold in step S701. In the case where the traffic volume (link utilization rate) of both backhaul links is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold, it can be set in advance in AP 101 which backhaul link to stop. In this case, AP 101 can determine which backhaul link to stop based on the frequency band (2.4-GHz or 5-GHz) in which the backhaul link is established. AP 101 can determine the backhaul link that maintains a larger traffic volume (higher link utilization rate). Optionally, the user can select which backhaul link to maintain. The stop message is sent via the backhaul link instead of the backhaul link to be stopped. After executing the processing of step S703, the processing ends.

[0123] At least one of AP 102 and AP 103 receives the stop message from AP 101 and stops the corresponding backhaul link. AP 102, which builds network 108 in which the backhaul link is established, may stop network 108 if no other communication is performed on network 108. AP 102 may autonomously stop network 108. AP 101 may instruct AP 102 to stop network 108.

[0124] As mentioned above, Figure 7 The method of stopping one of the multiple backhaul links by the controller if the multiple backhaul links are no longer used between the agents is shown. The controller can control the multiple backhaul links between the agents based on the change of the traffic volume of the backhaul links and the change of the communication state in the MAP network 111.

[0125] In this exemplary embodiment, a WPS method for establishing a backhaul link is described. However, this is not restrictive, and the DPP method may be used. In the DPP method, communication parameters are shared by a method that complies with the Wi-Fi DPP standard. In the communication parameter sharing process that complies with the Wi-Fi DPP standard, a device that plays a role in providing communication parameters is called a configurator, and a device that plays a role in obtaining communication parameters is called an enrollee. An enrollee can join a network by using the communication parameters obtained from the configurator. The configurator can provide communication parameters not only to the STA but also to the AP, so that the AP uses the provided communication parameters to build a network.

[0126] Figure 8 1 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing performed when AP 102 and AP 103 establish multiple backhaul links by using the DPP method. In this exemplary embodiment, AP 101 operates as a configurator, and AP 102 and AP 103 operate as loggers. Figure 8 At the beginning of the sequence, AP 101 has shared communication parameters with AP 102 by using the DPP method, and AP 102 has joined the network 106 constructed by AP 101.

[0127] In step F801, the AP 102 first sends an AP autoconfiguration search message to search for a controller in the MAP network 111. This process is similar to Figure 3 The processing of step F301 in .

[0128] In step F802, AP 101 operating as a controller receives a search signal from AP 102, and sends an AP auto-configuration response message to AP 102. This process is similar to Figure 3 The processing of step F302 in .

[0129] exist Figure 3 In the example, since the WPS method is used, AP 101 and AP 102 as well as AP 101 and AP 103 send and receive AP automatic configuration WSC messages therebetween. Figure 3In contrast, the use of the DPP method does not involve the sending and receiving of such messages. In this process, a message including capability information about the wireless communication of AP102 and AP 103 and information about the BSS that the wireless I / F or other APs can join is sent instead of a WSC message. Alternatively, such information may be included in an AP automatic configuration search message sent from AP 102 and AP 103. Alternatively, AP 101 may send an inquiry message for requesting to obtain such information, and AP 102 and AP 103 may send corresponding information contained in a response message to the inquiry message.

[0130] In step F803, in order to establish a new backhaul link to the AP 102, the AP 103 first performs a DPP sharing process with the AP 101. The DPP sharing process includes a bootstrapping process, an authentication process, and a configuration process.

[0131] AP 101 and AP 103 first perform a boot process. Through the boot process, the configurator and the logon share public key information. Specifically, the configurator uses its camera function to capture and share the public key information included in the Quick Response (QR) code (registered trademark) associated with the logon. This is not restrictive, and the public key information can be shared through Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication or NFC communication. Optionally, the configurator and the logon can share the public key information through a public key exchange (PKEX) method, in which the public key information is shared by using a common string.

[0132] Next, AP 101 and AP 103 perform an authentication process. The authentication process is performed between the configurator and the logon. In this process, the configurator and the logon exchange authentication request, authentication response, and authentication confirmation frames to authenticate each other's devices.

[0133] Next, AP 101 and AP 103 perform configuration processing. In the configuration processing, the configurator provides a connector including communication parameters to the logon. The connector includes various types of information used by the authentication protocol and key exchange algorithm defined by the Wi-Fi DPP standard. In the present exemplary embodiment, the connector includes information for joining the network 107 constructed by AP 102. The information provided by AP 101 in the configuration processing may include information for identifying a connection destination using communication parameters, such as the SSID of the AP that is the connection destination.

[0134] In step F804, the AP 103 performs a DPP connection process by using the connector obtained from the AP 101. Specifically, the AP 103 joins the network 107 constructed by the AP 102, and establishes a backhaul link by using the obtained connector.

[0135] In step F805, AP 103 sends an AP auto-configuration search message to AP 101. In step F806, AP 101 sends an AP auto-configuration response message to AP 103 as a response. Such processing is similar to Figure 3 Similar to the processing of steps F801 and F802, capability information about wireless communication of AP 103 and information about BSSs that the wireless I / F and other APs can join may be transmitted in step F805 or by using other messages.

[0136] In step F807, AP 101 determines whether to establish multiple backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103. This process is similar to Figure 1 In the present exemplary embodiment, AP 101 determines to establish a plurality of backhaul links between AP 102 and AP 103.

[0137] Figure 8 The processing from step F808 to step F811 in Figure 3 In this process, the backhaul establishment start message (step F808 and step F810) includes information for giving an instruction to establish a new backhaul link by the DPP method.

[0138] In step F812, AP 101 and AP 103 perform DPP sharing processing to establish a new backhaul link. The processing performed here is similar to the processing of step F803. The connector provided by AP 101 in step F812 includes communication parameters for joining the network 108 built by AP 102. Since AP 101 and AP 103 have already performed DPP sharing processing in step F803, one or more unnecessary processing can be omitted. Specifically, the boot processing can be omitted. In addition, the boot processing and the authentication processing can also be omitted and only the configuration processing can be performed.

[0139] In step F813, the AP 103 performs a DPP connection process by using the connector obtained in step F812. The AP 103 can thereby join the network 108 of the AP 102 and establish a second backhaul link to the AP 102.

[0140] Figure 8The processing from step F814 to step F817 in Figure 3 The processing of steps F324 to F327 in .

[0141] like Figure 8 As shown, AP 102 and AP 103 can therefore use the DPP method to perform the login process. Figure 8 In the step F803, the DPP sharing process is performed again when multiple backhaul links are established (step F812). However, this is not restrictive, and all connectors for establishing backhaul links may be provided by the first DPP sharing process (step F803). Specifically, in step F803, AP 101 may provide AP 103 with connectors for joining both network 107 and network 108 constructed by AP 102. In this case, when sending a backhaul establishment start message to AP 102 and AP 103, AP 101 may include information for specifying which connectors are used to establish the backhaul links. In addition, AP 103 skips the process of step F812.

[0142] In this exemplary embodiment, multiple APs are described as being connected via a wireless network and performing wireless communication. However, this is not restrictive. At least some of the APs may be connected via one or more wired networks and perform wired communication. When multiple backhaul links are established, one of the backhaul links may be established via wired communication, while the other backhaul links may be established via wireless communication.

[0143] If the other device to share communication parameters supports both WPS and DPP methods, AP 101, AP 102 and AP 103 can select the DPP method with higher security. Alternatively, the user can select which sharing process to perform. Alternatively, if the other device supports only one of the two methods, the method is selected.

[0144] Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 At least part or all of the flowcharts of AP 101 and AP 102 shown in the figure can be implemented by hardware. In the case of hardware implementation, for example, a dedicated circuit can be generated on a field programmable gate array (FPGA) from a computer program for implementing the steps using a predetermined compiler, and the generated dedicated circuit can be used. Similar to the FPGA, a gate array circuit for hardware implementation can be formed. It can be implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7The steps of the flowchart shown in FIG. 1 may be performed in a distributed manner by a plurality of CPUs or devices not shown. The same applies to Figure 3 and Figure 8 order.

[0145] The exemplary embodiments have been described in detail. However, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention may take various forms such as systems, devices, methods, programs, and recording media (storage media). Specifically, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be applied to a system including multiple devices (such as a host computer, an interface device, a camera device, and a web application), or to a device including a single device.

[0146] The exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be implemented by providing a program for implementing one or more functions of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It may also be implemented by a circuit (such as an ASIC) for implementing one or more functions.

[0147] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when establishing a link between base stations, a communication device controlling a network including a plurality of base stations may control the establishment of a plurality of links.

[0148] Other Implementations

[0149] The embodiments of the present invention may also be implemented by reading and executing computer executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (also more completely referred to as a "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium") to perform one or more functions in the above-mentioned embodiments, and / or a computer of a system or device including one or more circuits (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) for performing one or more functions in the above-mentioned embodiments, and the embodiments of the present invention may be implemented by, for example, reading and executing the computer executable instructions from the storage medium by the computer of the system or device to perform one or more functions in the above-mentioned embodiments, and / or controlling the one or more circuits to perform one or more functions in the above-mentioned embodiments. The computer may include one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU)), and may include a network of separate computers or separate processors to read and execute the computer executable instructions. The computer executable instructions may be provided to the computer, for example, from a network or the storage medium. The storage medium may include, for example, one or more of a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a memory of a distributed computing system, an optical disk (such as a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), or a Blu-ray disc (BD)), a flash memory device, a memory card, and the like.

[0150] The embodiments of the present invention may also be implemented by providing software (program) for performing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and a computer or a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU) of the system or device reads and executes the program.

[0151] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A communication device, comprising: A communication unit for communicating with a base station having a function of building a network; a control unit configured to control a network including a plurality of base stations including a base station that communicates by using the communication unit; as well as The first transmitting unit is configured to transmit a message to at least one of a first base station and a second base station included in a network controlled by the control unit so that a plurality of links to be used for communication are established between the first base station and the second base station.

2. The communication device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first determining unit configured to determine whether the first base station and the second base station can establish a plurality of links to be used for communication, The first sending unit is configured not to send the message if the first determining unit determines that at least one of the first base station and the second base station cannot establish a plurality of links to be used for communication.

3. The communication device according to claim 2, further comprising: a second determining unit configured to determine whether to establish a plurality of links to be used for communication between the first base station and the second base station if the first determining unit determines that the first base station and the second base station can establish the plurality of links to be used for communication; The first sending unit is configured to send the message when the second determining unit determines to establish a plurality of links to be used for communication between the first base station and the second base station.

4. The communication device according to claim 3, further comprising: a first acquisition unit configured to acquire information about a first link to be used for communication, the first link being established between the first base station and the second base station, The second determination unit is configured to make a determination based on information about the first link.

5. The communication device according to claim 4, in, The first acquisition unit is configured to acquire information about the traffic volume of the first link, and The second determining unit is configured to determine to establish a plurality of links to be used for communication between the first base station and the second base station when the traffic volume of the first link is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold.

6. The communication device according to claim 4, further comprising: a second acquisition unit configured to acquire information about a network controlled by the control unit, The second determination section is configured to make the determination based on information about the first link and information about a network controlled by the control section.

7. The communication device according to claim 6, in, The second acquisition section is configured to acquire information on whether there is another link using the same frequency channel as a frequency channel of a link to be newly established between the first base station and the second base station in the network controlled by the control section, The second determining unit is configured to determine to establish a plurality of links to be used for communication between the first base station and the second base station when the traffic volume of the first link is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold and the other links do not exist in the network, and The second determination unit is configured to determine not to establish multiple links to be used for communication between the first base station and the second base station when the traffic volume of the first link is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold and the other links exist in the network.

8. The communication device according to claim 7, in, The second acquisition unit is configured to further acquire information about the traffic volume of the other link, and The second determining unit is configured to determine to establish multiple links for communication between the first base station and the second base station when the traffic volume of the first link is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold, the other links exist and the traffic volume of the other links is less than the predetermined threshold.

9. The communication device according to claim 1, further comprising: A second sending unit is configured to send a message for causing the first base station to build the network intended for the link newly established between the first base station and the second base station, if the first base station has not yet built the network.

10. The communication device according to claim 1, further comprising: a third determining unit, configured to determine, when a plurality of links are established between the first base station and the second base station, whether the plurality of links are to be used between the first base station and the second base station; as well as A third sending unit is configured to send a message for stopping one of the plurality of links if the third determining unit determines that the plurality of links are not to be used.

11. The communication device according to claim 10, further comprising: a third acquisition unit, configured to acquire information about traffic volumes of the plurality of links; The third determining unit is configured to determine not to use the multiple links when the traffic volume of at least any one of the multiple links is less than a predetermined second threshold, and The third sending unit is configured to send a message for stopping a link having a traffic volume less than the predetermined second threshold among the plurality of links.

12. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein: A link between the first base station and the second base station is established by performing a communication parameter sharing process compliant with the Wi-Fi Protected Setup standard.

13. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein: A link between the first base station and the second base station is established by performing a communication parameter sharing process that complies with an equipment provisioning protocol standard.

14. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein: The communication device functions as a controller according to the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard, and the first base station and the second base station function as agents according to the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard.

15. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein: The first base station and the second base station establish a backhaul link compliant with the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard as a link to be used for communication.

16. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein: The first transmitting unit is configured to transmit the message to the first base station by wireless communication via a first wireless network constructed by the communication device, and the first base station joins the first wireless network.

17. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein: The first transmitting section is configured to transmit the message to the first base station through wired communication, the first base station being connected to the communication device via a wired network.

18. The communication device according to claim 16, wherein: The message sent by the first sending unit is sent from the first base station to the second base station through wireless communication via the second wireless network constructed by the first base station, and the second base station joins the second wireless network.

19. The communication device according to claim 16, wherein: The message transmitted by the first transmitting unit is transmitted from the first base station to the second base station through wired communication, and the second base station is connected to the first base station via a wired network.

20. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein: The first transmitting unit is configured to transmit, as the message, a backhaul establishment start message for starting establishment of a plurality of links to be used for communication.

21. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to operate as the communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. A control method for a communication device, the control method comprising: A communication step of communicating with a base station having a function of building a network; A control step of controlling a network including a plurality of base stations, wherein the plurality of base stations include a communication base station that communicates in the communication step; as well as The sending step includes sending a message to at least one of a first base station and a second base station included in the controlled network, so that a plurality of links to be used for communication are established between the first base station and the second base station.

Images